Back to Los Angeles to Chicago overview
Los Angeles to Chicago: Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping (2026)
Choosing between open and enclosed car shipping from Los Angeles to Chicago comes down to vehicle value and weather exposure. Open is cheapest at ~$1,200 average, while enclosed adds 35–55% for full weather and debris protection. Below is the full side-by-side comparison.
Avg Cost
$1,200
Distance
2,010 mi
Transit
6-9 days
Per Mile
$0.60
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Los Angeles → Chicago) | $1,000 – $1,400 | $1,400 – $2,170 |
| Vehicles per load | 7–10 cars | 2–6 cars |
| Weather protection | Exposed to elements | Fully enclosed |
| Cargo insurance | $100K–$250K | $500K–$1M+ |
| Carrier availability | High (most lanes daily) | Lower (1–2 weeks lead time) |
| Best for | Daily drivers, sedans, SUVs, trucks | Luxury, classic, exotic, low-clearance, high-value |
When to Choose Open Transport
- Vehicle value under $60K
- Standard sedan, SUV, truck, or daily driver
- Budget is the top priority — saves 35–55%
- You need pickup within 1–7 days (more carriers = faster dispatch)
When to Choose Enclosed Transport
- Vehicle value $60K+ (luxury, exotic, classic, restored)
- Low clearance — convertibles, lowered, custom builds
- Winter shipping through harsh-weather corridors
- You need maximum cargo coverage ($500K+)
Our Recommendation
For most Los Angeles to Chicago shipments — daily drivers, family vehicles, used-car purchases — open transport at $1,000–$1,400 is the right choice. Reserve enclosed for vehicles where the extra $400–$770 buys meaningful peace of mind.
More on Los Angeles to Chicago Car Shipping
Los Angeles to Chicago Car Shipping FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Los Angeles to Chicago?
Shipping a car from Los Angeles to Chicago costs $1,000 - $1,400 on open transport, covering the 2,010-mile route at roughly $0.60 per mile. Enclosed transport runs $1,400–$2,170.
How long does it take to ship a car from Los Angeles to Chicago?
Transit time from Los Angeles to Chicago averages 6-9 days, depending on carrier availability, weather, and pickup flexibility.
What's the cheapest way to ship a car from Los Angeles to Chicago?
Open transport is the cheapest option for the Los Angeles to Chicago route, starting around $1,000. Booking 2–3 weeks ahead and offering a flexible 3–7 day pickup window can lower the price further.
Is open or enclosed transport better for shipping a car from Los Angeles to Chicago?
Open transport is best for standard vehicles and costs $1,000–$1,400. Enclosed transport ($1,400–$2,170) is recommended for luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles needing extra protection.
Do I need to be present for pickup or delivery in Los Angeles or Chicago?
Yes, an authorized adult (18+) must be present at both pickup in Los Angeles and delivery in Chicago to sign the Bill of Lading and inspect the vehicle's condition.
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